Ranging from Saudi school changes to large-scale guest-hospitality upgrades in Dubai, this week’s GCC updates shine a light on transformations redefining daily life across the Gulf region. A parent, foodie, frequent flyer or expat who’s staying informed about the region, look here at what you need to know.
6 GCC Updates That Are Worth Your Time
1. Saudi Arabia To Abandon Three-Term System By 2025
The school calendar will return to a two-semester system from 2025–2026. This decision follows wide consultations with students, teachers and parents conducted by the Ministry of Education. Also, regions like Makkah and Madinah, which have unique religious and seasonal schedules, will benefit from the simpler calendar. Officials clarified that while a three-term model offers more school days, real quality comes from teacher training, strong curriculum and leadership. The change falls under the broader goals of Vision 2030 to improve education outcomes across the kingdom.
2. Abu Dhabi Frozen Food Shop Shut Down For Hygiene Failures
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DESI BNP General Trading LLC, a frozen food outlet in Abu Dhabi, has been shut down by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture & Food Safety Authority. The shop failed several food safety tests and failed to take note of repeated warnings. Regulators announced the shutdown in a bid to safeguard public health following repeated noncompliances with regulations. It is an indication of the emirate’s firm policies on food hygiene and zero-tolerance for neglect.
3. Dubai’s Museum Of The Future Surpasses 4 Million Visitors
Dubai Museum of the Future has achieved a major milestone with more than 4 million visits since its inauguration in 2022. It is not just a futuristic structure on Sheikh Zayed Road anymore, it’s a centre for innovation and world conversation.
That success was the result of Dubai’s expanding reputation as a capital for intellectual and inventive brains, said Chairman Mohammad Al Gergawi. It is at the heart of the vision for the UAE being a destination for forward-thinking ideas set out by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
4. Minor Earthquake Felt In Khor Fakkan, UAE
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A 2.0-magnitude earthquake struck Khor Fakkan at 8.35 pm on Tuesday night. The shallow tremor was 5 kilometres deep and was noticed by some residents.
The National Centre of Meteorology verified it didn’t cause any impact or damage. It was more of a short discussion point rather than a reason for concern.
5. Oman Air To Launch City Check-In At Muscat
Travellers departing from Muscat will enjoy a new convenience soon. A first-in-the-state city check-in centre will soon be operational with the launch of Oman Air’s facility at the end of this year. It will offer passengers room for checking in and dropping their luggage without going all the way to the airport. It’s a similar measure to the system used at Salalah during the khareef season and is targeted at relieving congestion at the airport and saving passengers’ time.
6. Al Hallab Reopens At Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai
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Al Hallab has reopened with a new face at Mall of the Emirates, close to VOX Cinemas. The Lebanese eatery has been re-designed with cosy interiors, an open kitchen, and sophisticated touches such as Phoenician tiles.
The revamped space can seat up to 180 guests and features an expanded Lebanese sweets counter. With its new slogan “A Timeless Journey”, the restaurant blends heritage with a modern dining experience that stays true to its roots.
Keep an eye out for more updates next week as GCC unveil new changes across all industries.
Cover Image Courtesy: DESI BNP General Trading LLC/FB, Oman Air/X